Recently we wrote about the Internet of Toys and how it’s revolutionizing playtime. Thanks to the IoT and M2M technology, toys are now linked to the Internet, meaning they’re able to communicate with humans and act out narratives developed by toy company storytellers. With the festive season almost upon us, connected toys are sure to be flying from the shelves.

While the opportunities for more engaging playtime and cognitive development are endless, there are unfortunately risks attached, meaning that effective security solutions are crucial.

Last month, disturbing news surfaced highlighting how toymaker VTech had been hacked, resulting in cyber-attackers gaining photos of children and chat logs. Around 5 million profiles are estimated to have been affected. One leading security expert has stated that VTech did not properly encrypt customer passwords, leaving them vulnerable to a data breach. Clearly, the VTech hack underlines the importance of effectively managing customer data ensuring secure IoT toys.

In conclusion, toy companies need to develop strong strategies for managing data through enhanced encryption and tokenization systems, as well as ensuring data is channeled through secure networks. Otherwise, your child’s toys might become more dangerous than Sid Phillips’ mutilated toy hybrids from the original Toy Story.

In my first post about the Internet of Toys, I mentioned how I was planning to buy a connected toy as a Christmas present for my young son. However, in light of this news, I’m now starting to reconsider my decision. What do you think? Let us know your thoughts by tweeting to us @Gemalto.